All-new Kia Sportage Launched in Malaysia; Prices from RM122k

Kia’s venerable mid-size crossover enters its fourth generation with the official launch of the 2016 Kia Sportage. Alongside its larger sibling, the Sorento, that was also launched on the same trot, the Sportage now has the unenviable task of going up against the likes of the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson.

Two variants are introduced at the outset priced as follows:

• 2.0 2WD KX at RM121,888
• 2.0 2WD GT at RM141,888

Motion is supplied by the firm's Nu series 2.0-litre port-injected and naturally aspirated engine outputting 155PS at 6,200rpm and 192Nm of torque at 4,000rpm. Power is put on the road through a six-speed conventional auto powering only the front wheels. Depending on demand, Kia is open to the possibility of introducing more powerful variants and even the option of all-wheel drive at a later date.

The standard KX spec Sportage boasts the following key equipment:

• Halogen projector headlamps, manual leveling adjustment
• Bulb-type illumination - daytime running lights, front fog lamps, third brake light
• Fender-mounted side signal lights
• Rear fog lights - LED
• Side mirror - electric adjustment
• 3.5" TFT mono LCD trip computer
• Multimedia infotainment - Radio, MP3, MP4, Bluetooth, USB, AUX
• Reverse camera
• Fabric upholstery
• Rear air-con vents
• Tilt & telescopic steering - audio controls, Bluetooth handsfree
• 6 airbags
• Reverse sensor
• ISOFIX
• ABS, EBD 
• Electronic Stability Control

The RM20k-costlier Premium model, meanwhile, adds the following equipment:

• HID headlamps, auto leveling
• LED illumination - daytime running lights, front fog lamps, third brake light
• Side mirror - electric adjustment, electric folding, integrated signal lights
• 4.2" TFT Colour LCD trip computer display
• Electro-chromic rear view mirror
• Dual-zone climate control
• Leather upholstery
• 8-way electric adjustment - both front seats
• 2-way lumbar support - driver seat only
• Smart keyless entry, engine start/stop button
• Front and rear parking sensors

The all-new Kia Sportage is available in five colours and comes with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty.